Positive Partnerships is a national project, funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training through the Helping Children with Autism package. The program is delivered by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), with a goal to improve the educational outcomes of school-aged students on the autism spectrum. We aim to foster productive relationships with a focus on working respectfully and appropriately with students and families from many diverse backgrounds.Monique Osborn (Principal) has completed the training which has given the school community a better understanding of sensory processing and mental health challenges and specific behaviours connected to autism. The program looks specifically atmaking adjustments to the curriculum, instruction and environment according to the needs of the students. The adjustments benefits all students, not just those with special needs.The first stage of our Positive Partnership work includes developing visual and physical resources to distribute throughout the playground to assist with rules, boundaries, play areas and communication. We are also developing a mindfulness space which will include sensory activities, quiet spaces and an outdoor learning space.Learning LandscapesAt Albert Street we have high expectations for all of our students to achieve their best. Our learning Landscapes are a set of expectations to help students and parents/carers to understand the level of skills expected to achieve during seven years of learning at our school. They also assist our students to increase their motivation, confidence and happiness which creates a great sense of calmness across the school. The learning Landscapes cover the following:Book and Writing—consistent and respectful use of materialsSpeaking and Listening—respectful communication with others at all timesOrganizational—managing personal materials, clothing and belongingIndependent Learning Skills—respecting school uniform and personal hygieneInterpersonal Skills—problem solving, questioning, conflict resolution and leadership skillsA comprehensive outline of our Learning Landscapes can be found here.The 2017 Students attitude to school survey indicated that 100% of our years 4-6 students agreed that our teachers have high expectations for them and 100% of these students felt that staff members were caring and concerned about their well being.MindfulnessAt Albert Street we provide a learning environment that focuses on the global development of your child. This includes academic performance, physical, social and emotional health and mindfulness practice. mindfulness is a practice of awareness through paying atention, it provides the space we need to take the time to slow down so we can observe how our bodies respond emotionally to everyday events. Mindful practice can include meditation, mindful walking, painting, drawing, colouring, moving and eating.Mindfulness is not about stilling the mind, it is about embracing thought and thinking in a healthy way so we can direct our attention for improved overall performance, better concentration and memory retention, better social relationships, confidence and happiness.The results from the practice has included increased motivation, concentration to task and detail, improved academic performance and social relationships and a greater sense of calmness in the classroom.